New sidewalk markers will soon define the boundaries of Foley's downtown Arts and Entertainment District as city officials move to make the popular program's presence more visible and permanent.

Foley City Council recently approved the installation of pre-printed thermal markers that will designate the district's limits. The new markers will replace stencil signs that were painted on downtown sidewalks when the district was first established.

Mayor Ralph Hellmich said the stenciled markings were intended as a temporary solution while the city evaluated the district's long-term viability.

"When the downtown Arts and Entertainment District was created, we put it on the probationary period. They did not want to invest in expensive signs if the entertainment district wasn't going to last," Hellmich said. "Now we know that it will. It's been well received by everybody. We need to make these more permanent. It will look better and be much more visible.

Foley Main Street, the city's downtown improvement association, developed the district as a way to promote businesses in Foley's historic downtown area. The district allows customers of participating restaurants and bars to carry drinks outside those businesses, helping encourage activity and commerce downtown while enhancing community engagement and cultural events.

Darrelyn Dunmore, executive director of Foley Main Street, said the new markers will provide a more recognizable symbol for the district than the existing stenciled signs. The markers are made from a non-slip material and feature blue and yellow colors designed to stand out on sidewalks.

Customers carrying beverages within the district must use drink cups displaying a sticker bearing the Arts and Entertainment District emblem.

According to Dunmore, growing demand for those stickers indicates the program continues to gain popularity.

Hellmich said the district's success reflects the impact Foley Main Street has had on revitalizing downtown.

"They are doing an incredible job," Hellmich said. "Main Street is an incredible glue that holds downtown together. We're going to continue to improve downtown and support our businesses. It's just really a vibrant area now and where people want to go."